Review: The Book of Man by William Bennett

Is it possible to become a man by reading one book? No, but if it was, The Book of Man: Readings on the Path to Manhood by William Bennett would be that book. In the book, Mr. Bennett has compiled profiles, stories, letters, poems, and myths into a volume intended to show the reader what it means to be a man.

The book is divided into six sections: Man In War; Man At Work; Man In Play, Sports, And Leisure; Man In The Polis; Man With Woman And Children; and Man In Prayer And Reflection. The author says that men are called to be heroes and he uses a series of stories, vignettes, essays, and profiles in each section to provide heroic role models.

This huge volume (the hardcover edition contains 576 pages) is a vital addition to any man or boy’s library. Before placing it on the shelf, though, read it cover-to-cover. Don’t let the size discourage you – it is well worth the time you’ll spend reading it. There is something to be gleaned from every page.

By the way, this would be an excellent Father’s Day gift for any man – young or old!